Is Fasting for One Day Healthy?

Fasting in the United States is not widely practiced like it is in foreign countries. In other areas outside the U.S., it is used not only for weight loss, but for mental and spiritual health. But if you're looking for a quick way to lose tons of weight without hours at the gym, fasting may be just the ticket. But is fasting for a day healthy? It is if it's done right.

Fasting is not for everyone, and it is not easy. Without a doubt, you can drop several pounds, and you'll see the results on the scales immediately. But many people, after the fasting period, will ingest in even more calories than they did originally, and the pounds will come back over night. The key is to reduce the calories, even ever so slightly, that you were taking in before. But is fasting for a day healthy? Not if you eat twice the calories the next day.

The weight loss will vary from person to person, depending on age, weight, and fitness level. But some people, even with a short fasting period of one to two days, report substantial weight loss. So if you absolutely must lose a few pounds in an extremely short period of time, fasting for a limited time will drop the weight like no other weight loss plan. It's not something you would want to do for any length of time. But is fasting for a day healthy? Yes, if done right.

To prepare yourself for the day of fasting, gradually cut back on dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol. Stay warm. Either lower the thermostat if the air conditioner is on, or crank up the heat if it's cold out. Stay hydrated. Drink eight, 12 ounce glasses of water or green tea. If you don't drink plenty of fluids, you will develop headaches. Don't try to exert yourself too much. This is your chance to be a couch potato without guilt. Have a good book lined up or a couple of movies and just chill. Your energy level will be so low during the fasting period that you won't be able to muster enough energy to complete your workout or whatever activity you normally take part in.

Another benefit of fasting is that it will help rid your body of harmful toxins. In the U.S., the focus is on weight loss, while in other countries, ridding your body of harmful toxins is the main goal. So is fasting for a day healthy? If it helps you drop a few pounds, gets you on the right track on your new diet and exercise routine, and you rid yourself of harmful toxins, then yes. If you take off eating everything in sight after your fast, then no, fasting is not for you.

But if you don't have much time and have to lose a few pounds in a very short period of time, fasting can work for you. The downside is that you have to be careful not to put on even more weight the days following a fast, and it is a bit uncomfortable. But you'll see a difference on the scales immediately, and you'll help rid your body of harmful toxins. Is fasting for a day healthy? If the weight stays off, yes. But that's up to you.

If you haven't had much luck on your own losing weight and toning up, a lot of people have had tremendous success with this weight loss guide. Take a few seconds and read a short overview of Strip That Fat, a program that has helped thousands quickly and easily lose weight and burn fat. And more on is fasting for one day healthy.